Tuam Karate Club

Christmas Holidays.

2011-12-18T13:25:00.007Z

After a particularly tough final weekend of training to conclude 2011, the club now has two weekends off to rest and recuperate before resuming training in early January.

There will be no training the weekends of the 23rd - 25th or 30th - 1st January.

Training will resume as normal from Friday the 6th of January with classes for beginners, intermediate and advanced students taking place every weekend.

We would like to thank all our members and their families for being so supportive of the club over the last year and everyone who has made such a huge effort to attend on a regular basis. All the effort from everyone has really paid off and 2011 has seen the club go from strength to strength and the standard of our students improve immeasurably.

We wish everyone an enjoyable and peaceful christmas and new year and hope the club continues to grow and develop in 2012. Onwards and upwards!
OSU!

Well done everyone!

2011-12-12T15:51:00.011Z

A huge congratulations to all who passed their grading on Friday last under Sensei Brian Toomey, 6th dan and head of IJKA Ireland. With almost 50 students attending the pre-grading class and every one who underwent examination (about 25 students) passing, it was a very successful night for the club.

All members who tested on the day did the club proud and the whole event was representative of the quality of students we have training with us and the high standard the club has reached. All the students' hard work and preparation clearly held them in very good stead and everyone performed fantastically throughout their gradings - even those going for red belt, who were given a particularly tough time! :)

Senesei Toomey taught a tough two hour class before the grading which focused on the 3rd dan black belt kata "Sochin", a wonderful kata that all the junior grades can look forward to learning in the future and that the club instructors have to struggle with in the present! Many thanks to Sensei Toomey for the class and grading and to all those from the Galway club who attended the event.

OSU!

Upcoming grading and class.

2011-12-06T10:19:00.003Z

Sensei Brian Toomey, 6th Dan IJKA world secretary and Irish chief instructor, will be teaching at Tuam Karate Club next Friday, December 9th. The class will be from 6pm to 8pm and costs 10 euro to help us cover travel and teaching costs. We ask all students to really make an effort to attend this class, as it is a great opportunity to train with a very highly ranked professional Karate instructor here in our dojo.

A grading will take place after the class. All Karateka from clubs in the surrounding area are, as always, more than welcome to attend the class and grade if they wish. Don't forget your grading books! Hope to see ye all there!

Classes for beginners are also continuing every Saturday from 11.30 - 12.30. Feel free to attend :)
OSU!

IJKA trip to Japan

2011-11-02T22:51:00.019Z

Here's a cool report that students might enjoy reading from the recent IJKA trip to Japan with Shihan Kato written by Sensei Steve Cameron of IJKA Worcestershire. It's quite long but has lots of cool information about what would surely be a dream come true for the vast majority of Karateka around the world.

See here for the introduction:
http://www.ijka.net/index.php?page=the-dragons-tour-2011

and here for part one:
http://www.ijka.net/index.php?page=chapter-1.

All of us at Tuam Karate Club are very jealous we couldn't attend this time, but maybe next year hopefully. :) OSU!

Training in one of the many dojos that were visited.

Osaka Castle. Photos courtesy of Mark Watts, 4th dan.

IJKA Ireland Autumn Seminar in Tuam: Course Report

2011-10-18T10:27:00.013+01:00

Sensei Brian Toomey, 6th Dan and Sensei Milena Galabova, 3rd dan demonstrate for the class under Sensei's watchful eye.

Tuam Karate Club was honoured last weekend to host Shihan Sadashige Kato, 9th dan and IJKA world chief instructor, for the sixth year in a row for the IJKA Ireland Autumn seminar. After the free classes of normal Friday night training in the dojo which were attended by Karateka from several different clubs, the course with Kato Sensei began on Saturday morning in the spacious Milltown community centre. In his usual form, Sensei spent the first class putting all those attending through their paces with some tough kihon drills which challenged everyone technically and physically.

Saturday afternoon involved lots of partner work, especially for the senior grades as Kato Sensei delved into many fundamental Karate concepts such as “ma-ai” (distancing), tai sabaki (body evasion), “zanshin” (awareness/“remaining spirit”), timing, and feigning an opening in one’s guard to lure an enemy in before a counter attack. Just as Sun Tzu said in The art of War over 2,500 years ago – all warfare is based on deception! Kato Sensei's assistant Sensei Milena Galabova, 3rd Dan IJKA Bulgaria and IJKA Kenshusei (trainee instructor) then took some of the juniors for a separate session while the black and brown belts were trained hard as ever by Shihan.

The Sunday morning instructors’ class had the black and brown belts partnered off in groups of three to perform various speed drills involving evasion, defence, and counter attacks as well as dissecting the Asai-Ryu Ha kata, Kakuyoku Shodan with Sensei offering several very important technical details about the Asai style Bujutsu Karate the IJKA promotes. He was also anxious to point out the responsibility that comes with being a senior grade and how important it is that senior grade Karateka not be “too soft” on themselves but rather continue to push themselves hard to attain high levels of ability and understanding. Wise words indeed!

In the all grades class that followed, Kato Sensei had the junior grades partnered off with the black and brown belts for some more partner work and instruction from a senior grade, this time working on defending and countering against various common attacks. Shihan Kato also made some interesting points about the proper mental attitude of a Karateka and how to do the often unexamined ready stance, yoi, correctly. As ever, Sensei kept the pressure on and made sure everyone was giving everything their best throughout another rewarding and educational lesson. The second half of the session dealt with the first two heian katas and took groups of three Karateka at a time out in front of the class to offer corrections and advice on their kata, giving many students a great opportunity to have their katas assessed by a 9th dan master.

As always with Kato Sensei, a similar level of attention was given throughout the weekend and Sensei was quick to offer all participants corrections where needed. Often heard were instructions to “Ree-lax”, move with “more speed” etc. etc. A great weekend of world class tuition from a world renowned master. Tuam Karate Club is really honoured to host such an event and plans are already afoot for next year’s seminar as well as attending the Spring seminar in the IJKA Ireland Hombu (HQ) dojo in Fermoy. Sincere thanks to everyone who attended and who helped organise and run the course. Well done to those who underwent gradings during the course as well. We look forward to training together again soon! OSU!!!

Ben.

Some of the many highlights from the weekend. More photos will be added to the photo gallery page as soon as possible. Lots have already been added to our facebook account.

Seminar with Kato Sensei, 9th dan in Tuam!!!

2011-09-15T17:32:00.008+01:00

Click to enlarge poster. Feel free to print one out for your dojo!

Tuam Karate Club is hosting our annual seminar with the world renowned Karate master Sadashige Kato, (9th Dan, IJKA world chief instructor). This is a great opportunity for Karate students in Ireland to train with an extremely senior Japanese instructor. Kato Sensei is a graduate of both the legendary Takushoku University - famed for it's gruelling dojo and many exceptional Karateka - and the infamous JKA instructors course. He is the only person ever to have passed an eight dan exam with the late Sensei Tetsushiko Asai, 10th dan. For more about Kato Sensei, see the instructors profile page linked to the right of this page.

As a club we are hugely honoured to host such a master and hope it will be as good a course as last year. Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any queries about the event.

Class times are as follows:

Saturday:
11.30 - 13.30
14.30 - 16.30

Sunday:
10.30 - 11.30 - instructors' class
11.30 - 13.00 - all grades
13.00 - Kyu and dan grading

The whole course costs only €60 for senior grades & adults and €30 for children.

The course cost will also include training in our club's regular Friday night session at our dojo in the Scout Hall, Old Road, Tuam from 6-7.30 for junior grades and 7.30-9.00 for seniors students for anyone who may wish to attend. :) OSU!!

*IJKA students are reminded to bring their grading books ("IJKA International Budo passport") to the course to have Kato Sensei sign and date it on the "Courses attended" page.

Tuam Karate Club - New Classes starting!!

2011-09-13T12:50:00.015+01:00

Tuam Karate Club is pleased to announce that a brand new course for beginners will be starting on Saturday October 1st from 11.30 - 13.00. If you want to learn to defend yourself, get fit, improve your confidence and have fun - why not give it a try?! The club is one of the oldest in the country, being founded in 1974. We currently have four black belts training at the club and a wide variety of mixed grades. The club accepts adults and students aged eight years and above. Class costs 5 euro and all classes are pay as you go. Your first class is free, so why not give it a try?! :-) To register for this class just turn up any Saturday from October 1st at about 11.25 to give it a go. Details are as follows:
Tuam Karate Club
Scout Hall, Old Road, Tuam.
Beginners' class every Saturday 11:30 – 12:30pm.
Adults and students eight years and above welcome.
Cost: 5 euro pay as you go. First class is free.

Further useful information for new members can be found in the FAQ section of our site - link on right of page. We have also just added some photos of our dojo to the photo gallery page so beginners have some idea of what to expect!

*Please also note that classes for junior grades continue to take place in the hall every Friday from 6:00 - 7:30pm. Students are welcome to attend both classes if they wish to gain extra practice, but there is no obligation whatsoever to do so.

Enter the Dojo!

2011-09-05T22:56:00.005+01:00

Here's a little video to give all our newest students a flavour of what to expect from training in our club...

Only joking! This is the first episode of a hilarious new martial arts spoof online series. There are several other episodes and clips elsewhere on youtube. Well worth a watch! Enjoy! :)

Well done!

2011-08-02T16:47:00.009+01:00

Just a brief post to say a massive congratulations to Gerda on passing her third brown belt exam at the weekend. This is really a huge achievement as it is the last of the colour belts, meaning her next grading will be for the coveted black belt! It's a great honour to see our students climbing the Karate ladder so successfully and it shows all Gerda's hard training with us has really paid off over the last while.

Congratulations is also in order for Matthew, our new green belt who has been training like a mad man for the last while and really did us proud during his grading, and to our two new second purple belts, Abi and Marie. Well done to all. Thanks to the excellent Sensei Brian Toomey, 6th Dan, for a fantastic and very tough kata session!

Upcoming grading and class.

2011-07-25T21:07:00.008+01:00

Sensei Brian Toomey, 6th Dan IJKA world secretary, will be teaching at Tuam Karate Club next Saturday July 30th. The class will be from 1pm to 3pm and costs 10 euro to help us cover travel and teaching costs. We ask all students to really make an effort to attend this class, as it is a great opportunity to train with a very highly ranked professional Karate instructor here in our dojo. A colour belt grading will take place after the class for the senior students. All Karateka from clubs in the surrounding area are, as always, more than welcome to attend the class and grade if they wish. Don't forget your grading books! Hope to see ye all there!

OSU!

P.S. Here's some interesting footage of Sensei Toomey teaching at an IJKA course in Crimea, Ukraine in the last few weeks. Footage courtesy of Satori Club, IJKA Crimea - Ukraine.

2011 Summer Course Report – Beach training!

2011-06-27T17:17:00.012+01:00

Shihan S. Kato, 9th Dan IJKA world chief instructor. More photos have been added to the gallery page.

The 2011 IJKA Ireland summer camp took place on Clonea Strand, Co. Waterford last weekend and was well attended by Karateka from across the country and the UK. Eleven members of our dojo made the trip down to train, including several who were training with Kato Sensei for the first time (well done to Saidbh and Geraldine for doing us proud!). The course was taught primarily by Shihan (master) Sadashige Kato, 9th dan and world IJKA head instructor but Sensei Milena Galabova of IJKA Bulgaria and Sensei Brian Toomey of IJKA Ireland also taught various groups and sessions over the weekend. The course focused heavily on the Bujutsu (martial art, as opposed to sport) Karate that the IJKA was founded to promote – with lots of focus on kata bunkai (applications) and Kato Sensei teaching and testing people's understanding of bunkai as he taught the various kata – something all too rare in Karate today. Saturday started out with lots of kihon training which focused on using the hips in different ways to generate power in kihon techniques. We moved onto some basic (but very strenuous!) kumite combinations which had sand flying everywhere and left everyone exhausted, after which we took a break to go running and swimming on the beach in the sun.

Later on the first two wheelchair Karate kata were taught and dissected in lots of detail. Wheelchair Karate was developed by Asai Sensei in an effort to help make Karate even more inclusive of as many people as possible, and continues to be promoted by the IJKA around the world today. Sunday morning saw the instructors training take place, which once again focused on kata and applications – this time of the more advanced Gankaku and Gojushiho sho. Sensei taught some fantastic joint locks, arm bars and throws and tested the more senior black belts understanding of the katas. The all-grades session then had the colour belts partnered with black belts in order to explore different footwork and timing strategies, as well as lots and lots more. A huge congratulations to Sensei Ross Daly and Sensei Joe Hunter who graded for third and fourth dan respectively during the course. It is great to see Irish Karateka being graded for such high ranks under such a highly regarded master. All in all, a great weekend of world class training and tuition and splashing about in the sea! Well done and thanks to Ciarán and Shubukan Dungarvan on a very well run and enjoyable course. We’re already looking forward to next year! :-) OSU!

Ben.

IJKA Summer Camp 2011!

2011-06-18T00:50:00.008+01:00

TUAM KARATE CLUB will be attending the annual IJKA Ireland summer camp in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford next weekend. Members of the club have been attending this course every year for well over ten years now and it is always a hugely enjoyable and rewarding experience. Classes with IJKA world Chief Instructor, Kato Sensei, 9th Dan, take place on the beautiful Clonea strand and many students camp in the camp site directly behind the beach. Accommodation is also available in the local hotel ("Clonea Strand hotel") or in Dungarvan town, approximately ten minutes down the road. There are still some lifts available for those who wish to attend, please contact Stacey for more information. Highly recommended!

As a result there will be no training at Tuam Karate Club next Friday and Saturday. Classes will resume as normal from Friday the 1st July. Details of the seminar are as follows:

IJKA Summer Camp 2011:
World Chief Instructor Shihan S. Kato (9th Dan)
June 25th and 26th
Clonea Strand, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford.
All sessions will take place on the beach, weather permitting.

Saturday: 10am to 12noon. Second session: 5pm to 7pm (*unusual class times to accommodate the tides)

Sunday: Instructors class: 11am -12noon
All grades:12 - 1:30pm
Black belt grading: 1:30pm

Prices - juniors: 35E; seniors:70E

For further information contact your instructors or Sensei Brian Toomey on 087 2500783

*Students attending from the club should bring their grading books ("IJKA International Budo passport") to the course to have Kato Sensei sign and date it on the "Courses attended" page.

Osu!
Stacey

Nidan Grading!!

2011-05-29T22:07:00.004+01:00

A huge congratulations to Sensei Earl who was informed last Saturday that he passed his 2nd dan black belt exam. Earl graded under his fifth dan Sensei in the Philippines when he was visiting friends and family there last December. As is often the case with more senior black belt gradings he had to wait some time to find out if he had passed or not, and it’s fantastic to see that all his hard training with us every week has paid off. On Friday Earl taught the seniors a really excellent class which focused primarily on the bunkai (applications) of the black belt kata Gankaku – lots of painful locks and joint attacks! He also taught in detail some of the throws found in the Heian series of katas and put us through our paces with some chaotic all-in fighting. Brilliant stuff and a very tough class! We now have three 2nd dans (two graded in the last year!) in the club which is a really excellent achievement and a huge asset for our dojo, which continues to go from strength to strength.

Congratulations to Earl from all Karateka in Tuam Karate Club and IJKA Ireland! OSU!

Sensei Earl glad to be getting a break at the IJKA Spring Seminar in Cork earlier this year.

Grading Report!

2011-05-16T18:26:00.008+01:00

On Friday last, a hugely successful grading under Sensei Brian Toomey, 6th dan and head of IJKA Ireland, took place in the club. With almost 50 students attending the pre-grading class and every one who underwent examination (about 25 students) passing, it was one of the most successful gradings we have had in a while. All members who tested on the day did the club proud and the whole event was representative of the quality of students we have training with us at the moment and the high standard the club has reached. All the students' hard work and preparation clearly held them in very good stead! Senesei Toomey taught a one and a half hour class before the grading which focused on the advanced level kata "Tekki Sandan", a wonderful kata that all the junior grades can look forward to learning in the future and that the seniors have to struggle with in the present! Many thanks to Sensei Toomey for the class and grading and to all those from the Galway club who attended the event. Onwards and upwards! OSU!

*Some pictures have already been added to the photo gallery and there are lots more to come as soon as we get a chance to sort them all out. We have also nearly completed updating the instructor profiles page - feel free to have a look!

National Championships Report

2011-05-03T13:10:00.018+01:00

Tuam Karate Club had great success at the Irish Open Shotokan Karate Championships in Fermoy, Co. Cork on Sunday last. 10 members of the club took part in the competition and a total of seven national level medals were brought home, with successes across almost every category and division. This really was a fantastic result for the club, especially as it was many of the squad’s first ever time competing in a Karate tournament! The standard at the Irish Open was, as ever, very high, but the club easily held its own and all our hard training every week clearly paid off! We hope to build on this success and return to the event next year with even more members attending and maybe even a few more medals too! A huge congratulations to all who attended, you all did the club proud. Thanks also to Sensei Brian Toomey, 6th Dan, and all at Kenbukan Dojo in Fermoy for an enjoyable and well run event. OSU! Persevere!

1st, 2nd AND third for Tuam! Daithí, Matthew and John from the club won all three medals in the under 16 Kumite (fighting) category! The medals were presented by the head coach of the Italian Karate team who traveled over for the event. More photos from the day have been added to the photo gallery.

Ben.

Competition!

2011-04-23T00:24:00.009+01:00

As always, Tuam Karate Club will be sending a squad to the Irish open shotokan Karate championships this year. The competition takes place in Fermoy, Co. Cork next Sunday and will be attended by Karateka from across the entire country. The standard at the competition is always very high, but attending is a great experience for students. Whether you win or lose, it really is all about having a new experience and meeting a challenge, as well as having a good time. A certain amounts of lifts are available with members who are driving down, if you would like to attend but do not yet have a lift arranged, please contact one of the instructors asap.

Full details are as follows:

IRISH OPEN SHOTOKAN KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2011

IRISH WHEELCHAIR KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS 2011

LORETO SPORTS COMPLEX, FERMOY, CO. CORK. SUNDAY May 1st 2011

OFFICIALS: 10.30AM. JUNIORS: 11.00AM. SENIORS: 1.00PM. WHEELCHAIRS: 2.00PM

JUNIOR KATA MIXED U.16:
-Beginner to 9th Kyu
-8th Kyu to 6th Kyu
-5th Kyu and Above

JUNIOR KUMITE U.12:
KIHON IPPON MIXED:
-Beginner to 9th Kyu
-8th Kyu to 6th Kyu
-5th Kyu to Black Belt

SENIOR KATA LADIES:
-Beginner to 4th Kyu
-3rd Kyu and Above

SENIOR KATA MEN:
-Beginner to 4th Kyu
-3rd Kyu and Above

JUNIOR KUMITE U.16 GIRLS:
-Under 4’6” Up to Purple Belt
-Under 4’6” Brown & Black Belt
-Over 4’6” Up to Purple Belt
-Over 4’6” Brown and Black Belt

JUNIOR KUMITE U. 16 BOYS:
-Under 4’6” Up to Purple Belt
-Under 4’6” Brown & Black Belt
-Over 4’6” Up to Purple Belt
-Over 4’6” Brown & Black Belt

SENIOR KUMITE LADIES:
-Up to 7th Kyu
-Up to 4th Kyu
-Brown & Black

SENIOR KUMITE MEN:
-Up to 7th Kyu
-Up to 4th Kyu
-Brown & Black

-SENIOR TEAM KUMITE
-SENIOR TEAM KATA

UNDER 19 KATA MIXED:
- Beginner to 9th Kyu
-8th Kyu to 6th Kyu
-5th Kyu to Black Belt

Under 19 KUMITE GIRLS:
-Up to Purple Belt
-Brown & Black Belt

UNDER 19 KUMITE BOYS:
-Up to Purple Belt
-Brown & Black Belt

-JUNIOR TEAM KUMITE (2 Male 1 Female)
-JUNIOR TEAM KATA (Any Mix)

Fees: Seniors: €15. Juniors: €10. Teams: €20.
(Fees include any number of Individual events.)
Spectators: Adults €10. Children Free.

*N.B. Team Competitions will depend on the number of entries.
Gum Shields and White Mitts are compulsory for all kumite events.
Events may be added or dropped on the day.

Wheelchair Karate events will be decided on the day.

Reminder for students

2011-04-12T17:23:00.006+01:00

Just a quick note to remind anyone who has not already done so to make sure that you bring in your IJKA grading books ("International Budo Passports") to training this weekend so we can give you your 2011 IJKA membership license sticker. Most people have already gotten theirs, so if you have not already done so make sure you do as soon as possible. See you all at the weekend. Train hard! :)

OSU!

20,000 hits & new FAQ page!

2011-03-30T11:31:00.006+01:00

We’ve now officially had in excess of 20,000 visits to the blog, more than five and a half thousand of which were unique visitors! While members of the club, people interested in joining and other Irish Karateka from around the country make up the vast majority of traffic we receive, we also consistently get visitors from all over the world, including Japan, China, the Americas, Singapore, Indonesia and many more exotic locations. Not bad for a club in the West of Ireland!

As some of you may have noticed, we’ve also just added a new frequently asked questions page. This will hopefully answer most of the questions anyone who is interested in trying out Karate with us will have and give people a good idea of what exactly is involved. We also recently updated our club history page. We have lots of further additions and improvements planned for the site over the next while so do keep checking back. As usual any feedback will be gratefully received. Train hard! OSU!

Ben & Ian.

Tuam Karate Club – Nidan Grading!!

2011-03-17T14:18:00.010Z

Tuam karate club would like to congratulate Sensei Ben Kelly on achieving his 2nd Dan black belt last weekend at the IJKA Spring seminar with Kato Sensei. About 10 members of the dojo made the trip to Fermoy for the course, including two of our white belts, Barry and Daithí who were training with Kato Sensei for the first time. Congratulations to them for doing the club proud. As usual it was a tough but very educational and fun weekend of training which was then followed by a very challenging grading examination from IJKA world chief instructor Shihan Kato (9th Dan). Ben has been training and teaching at Tuam karate club for many, many years now. His commitment to training and teaching and Karate in general is an inspiration to everyone in the club. It is also a great asset to the club to now have two 2nd dan black belts graded by one of the most well respected Karate masters in the world. I know Ben has a lot of exciting classes planned for everyone over the coming weeks which are certainly not to be missed!!

Well Done and congratulations from everyone at the Sho Bu Kan Dojo!

OSU!
Ben during his kumite! - some more photos from the weekend have been uploaded to our Photo Gallery page as well.

Kato Sensei seminar in Cork this weekend!

2011-03-06T19:52:00.019Z

This weekend, Kato Sadashige Sensei, one of the very few 9th dans in the world and IJKA world chief instructor will be conducting his spring seminar in the Kenbukan Dojo, Fermoy, Co. Cork. Members of Tuam Karate Club always look forward to attending this course as the instruction is really world class and the weekend is always good fun. While attendees normally sleep in the dojo, accommodation is also available in the local hotel or the nearby B&Bs. It is really a fantastic opportunity for us all to train with a “living legend” of the Karate world and one not to be missed! For further information on the course contact either Brian Toomey (087 2500783) or Stacey (087 9420026).

As a result of many students and all four black belts attending the course, there will be no classes in the Scout Hall on either Saturday or Sunday this weekend. Classes will take place on Friday as normal for everyone who is anxious to get some training in. Hope to see you there, OSU!

PS - Here's a short taster of what to expect on the course next week. Inspiring stuff!

Ben.

Training with Koike Sensei

2011-03-06T19:33:00.004Z

Members of Tuam Karate Club attended a course with Koike Yutaka Sensei in Kilconly, Co. Galway on Sunday last. The course, which was hosted by Faolchú Martial Arts, was very enjoyable and educational. Koike Sensei, a 5th dan, gave excellent instruction on a great many aspects of Karate, from the importance of correct breathing and posture, to grabbing and pulling an attacker in to disable them – and even the use of partner massages to help relax the body for effective fighting! Throughout the class he emphasised the significance of having good kihon waza (fundamental techniques) and explained how senior grades can use the fundamentals to help build their own Karate. He also stressed the importance of always maintaining a good Karate Spirit. During the black and brown belt class he taught some excellent applications for the kata “Bassai Dai” (meaning “To storm a fortress”) and explained that the primary function of true Karate is practical self defence, not simply sporting competition. A very enjoyable course overall. Many thanks to Faolchú for the invite.

Grading a great success!

2011-02-24T12:43:00.011Z

Last Friday's class and grading with guest instructor Sensei Brian Toomey was a huge success for the club. A 6th Dan black belt and one of the highest ranked Karate instructors in Ireland, Sensei Brian taught a physically demanding and thought-provoking class. He focused primarily on different defensive strategies and combinations based around the principle of body evasion - known as tai sabaki - and we worked on applying this in some rigorous three-person drills. Brian also ran us through the black belt kata "Ji'in" (meaning "love and truth") which is a requirement on the second dan grading syllabus. A very enjoyable (and very challenging!) class which was of great benefit to all who attended.

Following the class, a number of students (some of whom are pictured above) then graded for white, red and yellow belts under Sensei Brian. All the hard training over the last while had clearly paid off and they did the club proud by all passing with flying colours. Well done to all who trained and a huge congratulations to all who graded so successfully!

Ben.

Training with Sensei Brian Toomey

2011-02-08T13:04:00.004Z

Sensei Brian Toomey, 6th Dan Chief Instructor IJKA Ireland, will be teaching at Tuam Karate Club on Friday the 18th of February. This class will take place from 6:00 – 7:45pm in the Scout Hall, old road, Tuam. Anyone who would like to attend training with Sensei Toomey is most welcome, as it is a great opportunity to train with a very senior Irish Karate instructor.

Osu!
Stacey

Special Xmas Training with former club instructors!

2011-02-01T22:47:00.001Z

Over Christmas Tuam Karate Club was fortunate enough to have visits from not just one but TWO of its former instructors who were visiting their home town over the Christmas period. Sensei Gerard Clyne taught in the club for almost ten years before he moved with his wife Meimei to China and he remains a close friend of all the senior students. Also visiting was Sensei Joe King (also known affectionately as “Redser” on account of his vibrant hair colour!) who instructed us in 2007 before moving permanently to the U.S.

While most martial arts clubs were still on holidays, the first of our two gruelling training sessions took place on St. Stephen’s Day – in a very, very cold dojo! Sensei Gerard focused heavily on the Karate of the late master Asai, 10th Dan, specifically “muchiken” (use of the body to generate whipping power) and “junansei” (softness or relaxation of the body). We also covered the correct use of the upper back muscles in kihon waza for maximum power generation, which we developed in our second class two days later. We also trained in “progressive,” all-in sparring (chaotic!!) and the effective use of the uppercut to the abdomen, as well as some punishing conditioning and fitness drills. Hugely enjoyable and top quality instruction and training and a real honour for all who made it in to train with these two excellent Karateka. OSU!!
*Pictures to follow hopefully!
Ben.

Stick Fighting Course

2011-01-18T22:41:00.014Z

Last Sunday saw the club hold our first course of 2011 – which was in the Filipino art of stick fighting known as “Arnis” or “Escrima”. The course was given by Sensei Jess Pablo who was assisted by his student Cian and IJKA Ireland chief instructor Brian Toomey, 6th Dan. Sensei Jess, who studied for many years under Grandmaster Ernesto Presas, taught us the fundamental techniques of his system of Arnis – known as “Kombatan”. This primarily involved techniques using two wooden rattan sticks simultaneously – known as “Doble Baston” – which left many of us with sore knuckles from failing to block correctly! One of the most interesting features of Arnis is that the very same hand movements and techniques can be performed either with an improvised weapon such as a stick or umbrella, or empty handed as the situation requires and this was explored in detail. Sensei Jess also taught us some very effective self defence drills for defending against weapons when empty handed, which we will be continuing to practice in regular classes. All in all a very enjoyable and worthwhile course, tiring but educational, just as any training should be!
Ben.

Blog Revamp!

2011-01-14T13:42:00.002Z

At long last we've gotten around to improving the blog! We've added a new "Karate Spirit" section with some philosophy of Karate articles for you to have a look through as well as modifying the general layout a lot. We've tried to make the new layout more user friendly and eye catching. We hope you like it. We're not finished yet and will be continuing to modify and improve it over the next while. More to come soon. Any suggestions or comments welcome, send them to ianontoast@gmail.com. OSU!
Ian.

Christmas holidays!

2010-12-19T15:49:00.004Z

Tuam Karate club has finished all classes for the Christmas holidays. Karate classes will start again on Friday 7th and Saturday 8th of January. We would like to wish all of our students and their families a very happy Christmas. see you all in the new year.

OSU!

Training cancelled due to bad weather conditions

2010-12-05T16:13:00.004Z

Tuam Karate club has had to cancel ALL classes this weekend and the annual Christmas demonstration for parents and friends that was meant to take place in the scout hall, Tuam due to the roads being extremely bad in the Tuam area. Classes and our demonstration will hopefully go ahead next week as normal. Everyone is advised to stay inside if possible, self protection is not just about kicks and punches!

Tuam Karate Club - New Classes starting!!

2010-08-15T18:39:00.010+01:00

Tuam Karate Club is currently accepting new students for Saturday classes. If you want to learn to defend yourself, get fit, improve your confidence and have fun - why not give it a try?! The club is one of the oldest in the country, being founded in 1974. We currently have four black belts training at the club and a wide variety of mixed grades. The club accepts adults and students aged eight years and above. Class costs 5 euro and all classes are pay as you go. Your first class is free. To register for this class just turn up any Saturday at about 11.25 to sign up. Details are as follows:

Tuam karate club
Scout Hall, Old Road, Tuam.
Beginners' class every Saturday 11:30 – 13:00pm.
Adults and students eight years and above welcome.
Cost: 5 euro pay as you go. First class is free.

Further useful information for new members can be found in the FAQ section of our site - link on right of page.

*Please also note that beginners' classes continue to take place in the hall every Friday from 6:00 - 7:30pm. Students are welcome to attend both classes if they wish to gain extra practice, but there is no obligation whatsoever to do so.

SUMMER CAMP DUNGARVAN - BEACH TRAINING!

2010-07-08T20:10:00.007+01:00

Members of Tuam Karate Club had a fantastic weekend recently when they travelled to Co. Waterford on the 26th/27th of June, to train with Shihan Kato, 9th dan. All sessions this year were held on a sunny Clonea strand. The weekend training session covered lots of tough partner fighting drills, all of the Heian katas, Tekki Shodan and the advanced kata Meikyo Sandan. On Sunday morning, Sensei Kato had everyone practice the kata Unsu, which had everyone wide awake especially when it came to the 360 degree jump and simulatneous double kick! As always with this course, great training in a great location and lots of fun as well. Some us even had time for a swim or two! I will post some pictures shortly in the gallery section. We're already looking forward to next year!

Here's a video of one of Kato Sensei's old friends, Yahara Sensei, 8th dan, giving his world famous performance of Unsu:

IJKA Summer Camp 2010!

2010-06-20T12:28:00.005+01:00

TUAM KARATE CLUB will be attending the IJKA summer camp in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. Members of the club have been attending this course every year for well over ten years now and it is always a hugely enjoyable and rewarding experience. Classes with IJKA world Chief Instructor, Kato Sensei, 9th Dan, take place on the beautiful Clonea strand and many students camp in the camp site directly behind the beach. Accomodation is also available in the local hotel or in Dungarvan town. Highly recommended! Details are as follows:

International Japan Karate Association Ireland
Presents 2010 Summer Camp:

World Chief Instructor
Shihan S. Kato (9th Dan)

June 26th. and 27th. 2010
Clonea Strand , Dungarvan, Co. Waterford
All sessions on the beach, weather permitting!

For further information on the course or accommodation contact:

Brian Toomey 00353(0) 872500783 - or ask one of the instructors in any of your classes!

Sensei Gerard Clyne

2010-06-11T11:34:00.003+01:00

Last weekend, it was survival of the fittest at Tuam Karate Club, when former head instructor Sensei Gerard Clyne came back to visit the club while on a brief visit from his home in China. Sensei Gerard kicked off the Friday class by giving everyone from beginners to black belts some very important points to think about when practicing oi zuki and mae geri. The second class gave the senior students some time to ask questions about their own training and some excellent ways to improve technique. Gerard covered so many techniques with us from kihon combinations, to speed drills and grappling takedowns to name but a small selection. On the Saturday session, Sensei Gerard had everyone jump into action (literally!) with some very tough plyometric jumping leg drills. On Sunday Gerard taught the kata UNSU (meaning "Hands in the Clouds"). A very challenging kata to learn, which will require many years of practice! Tuam Karate Club would like to thank Sensei Gerard for giving his free time to come and teach classes all weekend at the club. It is always great to train with him and a there is always a huge amount of great information to take in for everyone from the most junior beginners to the most senior of black belts. We hope to see him back teaching again on his next visit to Tuam.

OSU!

Sensei PJ Maloney

2010-05-25T23:47:00.002+01:00

Sensei PJ Maloney class in Tuam karate club has been cancelled until further notice. When i have more information i will let students know.

Three Generations of Tuam Karate Club!!!

2010-05-17T16:41:00.004+01:00

I have been going through some old photos and found one of my favourite pictures. This is from the International Japan Karate Association(IJKA) Summer Camp and
Asai Cup European Open Karate Championships back in 1999. This was held in Dungarvan, co. Waterford. In this picture the late Asai Shihan 10th Dan, with Celine King, Gerard Clyne and Stacey Kelly all from Tuam Karate Club. A great weekend of beach training with great friends and a true Master of Karate-Do.

Osu Shihan!

More pictures have been added to the gallery.

Well done!

2010-05-17T16:32:00.001+01:00

I would like to congratulate all of the senior grades in the club, who graded under Sensei Brian Toomey last Saturday. Well done to Gerda, Martin, Declan, Sean, Nicola and Anna. They were all put to the test by Sensei Brian and were all successful on the day. It was a great two hour class, in the first hour we learned one of Shihan Kato’s kata which is called Zenkutsu Dachi No Kata. This kata is very useful if you wish to work on or improve you front stance. The second hour everyone practiced Kakioku sandan, which challenged everyone with lots of nice hand techniques. Thanks to Sensei Brian Toomey for conducting the grading.

Hanshi Patrick McCarthy, 8th Dan - Galway Seminar Report.

2010-05-17T16:25:00.011+01:00

Several senior members of Tuam Karate Club and IJKA Ireland recently attended a seminar given by world renowned Karateka, author and historian Hanshi Patrick McCarthy, 8th Dan, in Galway. Sensei McCarthy has spent years travelling across Asia researching and recording Martial arts history and techniques. He has written and translated a huge amount of material, including the ancient Okinawan text, The Bubishi, also known as "the Bible of Karate". It was a very educational and very enjoyable course with a huge amount of information being discussed, all of it with great relevance to real world self defence situations. Many thanks to the guys from NUIG karate club for the invite! We look forward to training with this fantastic Sensei again.

Osu!

*For more about Sensei McCarthy, see his website at www.koryu-uchinadi.com.

KARATE CLASS FRIDAYS 6 – 7:30PM

2010-04-24T16:58:00.006+01:00

Friday classes will be starting on the 14th of May in Sho Bu Kan dojo. If you want to learn to defend yourself, get fit, improve your confidence and have fun - give it a try! This class is open to everyone, whether you are a first time beginner or a coloured belt from another club that wants to improve their Karate skills and get some extra practice. Tuam karate club teaches high quality traditional Karate to adults and students aged eight years and above. If you are interested, please turn up on the 14th of May or any subsequent Friday at 6 o'clock and give it a go! Your first class is free and there is no pressure or obligation to join. Everyone is more than welcome to give it a try and see if they like it. For further information please contact Stacey 087 9420026 or just show up at the Scout Hall any Friday!

Further information for new members can be found in the FAQ section of our site - link on right of page.

*Please also note that beginners classes continue to take place every Saturday from 11.30am - 1:00pm in the hall. Beginning students are welcome to attend both classes if they wish to gain extra practice, but there is no obligation whatsoever to do so.

Sho Bu Kan Grading

2010-04-11T16:03:00.002+01:00

Tuam Sho Bu Kan would like to congratulate all of our members who graded yesterday. Everyone trained very hard in class and should be very proud of their performance on the day. Thanks to Sensei Brian Toomey - 6th Dan who travelled up from Cork to conduct the class and grading. In class, Sensei Brian went through everyone’s grading kata from Dai Ichi Ken up to Dai Yon Ken and also covered gohon kumite – jodan, chudan, mae geri. The class was then taught one of Asai Sensei’s katas called Kakioku Shodan. A really great kata to learn and it had lots of new techniques for the junior grades to practice. I’m hoping to see everyone back training in the dojo next week as usual. Well Done!

OSU

Grading

2010-04-03T18:24:00.001+01:00

A grading will be held on Saturday 10th of April in the Scout Hall Tuam. Sensei Brian Toomey will be teaching class from 1 – 2:30pm and the grading will begin once this class has finished. All students are to register at 12:30pm on the day. Please remember to bring your grading book and licence with you. The best of luck to everyone grading on the day.

Congratulations Sensei Ian!!!

2010-04-03T18:12:00.012+01:00

On the 13th and 14th of March, about a dozen students from Tuam Shobukan Karate Club attended the Shihan Kato, 9th dan, seminar in Fermoy Co. Cork. As usual Sensei covered so many techniques and combinations we are still trying to remember them all! On the Saturday we were taught four katas: heian sandan, junro sandan, joko sansei and meikyo sandan, which Sensei brought to life in a way only he can!

After the usual gruelling Sunday morning session one of our instructors, Ian (who has been training in the club since he was 5!), was asked to step onto the floor by Shihan Kato to undertake his Shodan (black belt) examination. Ian held his own on the floor: fighting eight opponents one after another and getting in some impressive head kicks on much taller opponents, as well as performing several intermediate and advanced kata. We would all like to congratulate Ian on his success. Ian is currently our youngest black belt at the club, he is dedicated, hard working and his knowledge and teaching skills are always sought after at Tuam Shobukan Dojo. Well done also to Martin and Matthew who trained with us for the fist time in Cork. Many thanks as usual to Sensei Brian Toomey for looking after us with accommodation in Ken-Bu-Kan dojo, also congratulations to Ken-Bu-Kan on the 40th anniversary of their club. We eagerly look forward to next year!

The grading: fight 5 - versus a 6th dan black belt!

Osu!
* Lots more photos from this momentous occasion are available on the photo gallery page!

Thank You

2010-04-03T18:10:00.000+01:00

Tuam Shobukan would like to thank Malcolm for all of the hard work and time he has spent in setting up this blog. I know he has put in a lot of effort and it is appreciated. I hope to keep everyone up to date on upcoming events and seminars that will be organised in the coming months.

Change of Admin to the site

2010-03-16T16:15:00.002Z

Like so many others affected by the changes in the global economy myself and my wife Marie have taken advantage of the free time to set up our own Club catering for the younger age groups of children from 4+.

Our club has been taking on a life of it's own and takes up alot more time to run and administer than expected. I've been trying to keep up with two blogs and as a result neither is getting my full attention.

Because of this I am handing over administration of the Tuam Sho Bu Kan club to Sensei Stacey Kelly 2nd Dan.
Please bear with us while we go through the transitionary period.

Yours in Karate Malcolm

Grading class with IJKA Ireland chief instructor!

2010-01-31T21:27:00.006Z

Last Saturday the 23rd January Sensei Toomey 6th Dan, IJKA Ireland chief instructor and IJKA wordl secretary, visited the club to hold a class dedicated to the Grading Katas, alas time did not permit the completion of the task and Teki Shodan and Bassi Dai were missed. However the Heian Katas were covered in minute detail.

Lots of work now to implement the small changes which seem to creep into ones Katas! The class was well attended with a good showing from the Galway City club present.
A grading was held on the day also and congratulations to those who took part. All were successful.

A new club blogspot has been launched for Sensei Toomeys' Ken Bu Kan Club in Fermoy by John Mc Carthy and I have included it in the Links on the side bar of the home page. Also the new IJKA World site is up and running. Both are well worth a visit.

Class Notice

2010-01-10T23:43:00.003Z

Just to let you know that there will be no class on this Saturday 16th Jan and that class time for all Junior members on 23rd Jan is at 11:30. Sensei Brian Toomey 6th Dan will be teaching Senior club members from 13:00 in the dojo on that day. If there is any change I will let you know.

Happy New Year

2010-01-06T01:43:00.002Z

Classes will resume on the 9th Jan '10 with beginners in at 11:30 and seniors at 13:00.
I hope you all had a nice break. Sensei Brian Toomey 6th Dan might be up to the club in late January to teach a class or two, i'll keep you up to date with that and post the date when I have one.
Also now is the time to begin to think about Grading. The Club will be grading under the watchfull eye of Sensei Toomey soon, again I will put up the date as soon as I have it.

Christmas Greetings

2009-12-19T16:46:00.002Z

Well today was the last official class before Christmas, so to all those that trained well done. Especially for braving the bad roads and weather.
The reward was to take a hammer and chisel to the enormous Kit-Kat bar Sensei Stacey was presented with by Sensei Paul Brant from Selby on his visit here for Sensei Katos course.
Sensei Paul works in Yorks Nestle plant and commissioned two of the bars weighing apx. 3kgs!!! now I could be wrong about that but it was big, very big and tasted good. There is a picture on the Whitchurch site of the bar being presented to Sensei Kato.
Enjoy the Christmas break and I will update the site over the break.

Gerry Flemming Honoured

2009-12-11T10:10:00.005Z

On Wednesday 9th Dec a number of West Coast Karateka gathered to honour their former teacher Mr Gerry Flemming in the Dojo which he founded 'Tuam Karate Club'.

Present on the night were some of his previous students all of whom are currently Senseis in their own Dojos. There to present him with his award was Mr. Flemmings Sensei, Mr. Denis Crowe.

As a teenager Mr. Crowe studied with Sensei Ceril Cummins 7th Dan and on his return to Galway in the 60's set up the first Karate Club West of the Shannon.

A number of presentations were made to Mr. Flemming on the night from his students who represented different organisations. The event was an interesting insight into the history of Karate in Ireland and in paticular the West Coast.

Denis Crow, Gerry Flemming, Marie Murphy, Celine King

IMAF National Championships

2009-11-30T16:53:00.004Z

The Hall

Jadzia Murphy

Jayden Murphy

On Sunday last Tuam Karate Club was represented at the IMAF Open by two members mother and daughter team of Marie and Jadzia Murphy. Jayden Murphy Jadzias younger brother also took part in the Kickboxing divisions.
Marie came 1st in the kata 3rd kyu and over performing Kanku Sho. She was unable to compete in the Kumite however because she was battling a stomach bug.
Jadzia Murphy competed in the Under 10 age group although only 7 years old she was joint 4th in the Kata performing Dai Niken and 2nd in the Kumite.
Jayden Murphy took part in the under 10 age group also. Although only 6 years he managed a 4th place in Points Sparring and a 3rd in Continuous Sparring.
The event was well attended on the day and ran off very well and to schedule.
Congratulations to all IMAF National Competitors.

Saturday Squad Training

2009-11-13T20:22:00.002Z

I know that it's a little short notice but Sensei PJ Malloney 5th Dan will be in the Dojo tomorrow Saturday 14th for a training session. Class will be for seniors and starts at 13:00. The cost will be €10.

Up Coming Events

2009-11-03T03:03:00.003Z

14th November – Steve Trombley, from Canada is giving a seminar in Manulla. Give Martin O'Malley a call at 087 – 6407263 if you’re attending.

21st November – Jujitsu/Bujutsu seminar with Tony Johnston from England in Manulla. Again, give Martin O'Malley a call at 087 – 6407263 if you’d like to attend.

22nd November – Karate seminar with Scott Langley, in Barnacarroll. Contact Alan Biesty for details on this seminar 087 – 8141342.

29th of November – The IMAF-Ireland Championships in Ballina Sports & Leisure Centre. Divisions on the day for Kata/Forms, Weapons Kata/Forms, Kumite, Semi Contact, Light Contact and Sport Haedong Kumdo. Contact Harry Thompson at 087 – 2753750 for full details.

There will also be two seminars with Moncef Abdelwahed from France, one in Athlone on the 18th/19th of December - contact Patrick on 086 – 0819250, and one in Manulla on the 20th of December – give Martin O'Malley a call on that one.

The JKS Ireland Spring Technical Seminar with Masao Kagawa 8th Dan JKS, March 12th – 14th 2010 in Dublin , Ireland .

The JKS Ireland Spring Open Championships which will be held at Sports Link, Santry, Dublin on Sunday, 16th May 2010.

Sensei S. Kato Seminar '09

2009-10-28T15:55:00.003Z

On Saturday and Sunday 24th and 25th October Sensei Kato 9th Dan World head of IJKA made his annual visit to Tuam to teach. A number of IJKA members from England travelled also, namely Paul, Rebecca,and Claire Brant from Selby, Steve Cameron from Worcester and Fran (whos sir name has illuded me).

The morning sessions were devoted to the development of Khion and Partnered Kumite.
In the afternoon session we were subjected to Senseis' own Kata Kibaken Nidan. This Kata is done using only Kiba Dachi so after an hour and a half there was alot of strained faces.

Sunday morning involved the learning of Fushu, another of Senseis' own Katas and then Kumite practice.

Everyone said the Seminar was brilliant and as usual I am still struggling to remember aspects of it, but perhaps that's aided by the accompanying socialising.

There are some additional photos in the Gallery

IMAF World Championships

2009-10-19T23:27:00.003+01:00

On the 17th and 18th of October in Antwerp Belgium, Tuam Karate Club member Marie Murphy competed in four events as part of the IMAF Ireland team.
Maries events were Individual Kata 4th to 1st Kyu, Team Kata, Sambon Kumite and Ippon Kumite, all Brown and Black.

Marie was knocked out in the first round of Individual Kata but the Team made it through to the Final rounds and placed a credible 4th place.
In Ippon Kumite she was unfortunate to fall foul of an obscure JKA rule which cost her an Ippon from a clean Mawashi Geri Jodan during a clash with her opponent. Resulting in her opponent being awarded the ippon and costing her the match.
Sambon Kumite was well fought with Marie progressing to the finals however luck was out again and she had to settle for a 4th place.

This was a two day event with some twenty nine countries sending teams to take part and the Irish Team took home one 1st, five 2nd, four 3rd, three 4th and a team 4th place in the varying disciplines.

Marie said she was privileged to take part and it was a very memorable experience.

Sensei Kato 9th Dan Seminar

2009-10-15T10:34:00.003+01:00

Tuam Sho-Bu-Kan will be holding a two day seminar with Sensei Kato 9th Dan head IJKA on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th of October in Milltown Community Center, Milltown Co. Galway.The class schedule is as follows.

Sat 24th..........Beginners & Children 10:30 to 11:30
..................All Students 11:30 to 13:00 (lunch break)then 14:30 to 16:30

Sun 25th..........Instructors 10:30 to 11:30
..................All Students 11:30 to 13:00

Fees for Children & Students 1 Class €15, 2 Classes €25, Weekend €35

Fees for Adults 1 Class €25, 2 Classes €50, Weekend €70

This is an Open Course so anyone from any Karate Orginasation may attend.

For further information on the course contact Sensei Stacey Kelly on 087 9420026,
Sensei Brian Toomey on 087 2500783, or myself Malcolm on 083 0082110

View Larger Map

Milltown is Located on the N17 North of Tuam apx. 10km. Continue through the town while travelling North past Sheridans Pub and the Community Center in on the Right between the Pub and N17 Superstore.

IJKA Open

2009-10-06T17:02:00.005+01:00

Six members of the club travelled to the IJKA Championships on Sunday. Junior members Jadzia Murphy and Tara Cassidy were experiencing a Karate Competition for the first time. So it was a big learning experience just to attend.

Jadzia competed well in all events, getting through to the second round in U16 Mixed Kata and taking first place in Kumite.
Tara was very successful bringing home two 2nd place trophies for Khion Ippon and Kumite.

Sisters Anna and Nicola Donnellan started the day in the U16 Mixed Kata. This had the largest group of competitors over any other on the day. Unfortunately for Nicola she was knocked out by one of the trophy winners. Anna continued to place 2nd, a huge achievement from such a large group.
Nicola also entered the Khion Ippon but the luck of the draw was against her again as she was drawn against fellow club member Tara in the 2nd round.

Congratulations to all four girls for their excellent performance.

Seniors Sensei Stacey Kelly and Marie Murphy took home 2nd place Kata and 3rd place Kumite respectively in the Senior Brown to Black Belt divisions. Stacey came a close second to Jackie O Shea (current world SKIF champion)while Marie lost out on a medal position by 0.1 of a point in the second round of the Kata.

Additional photos are in the Gallery

IJKA Open

2009-10-03T04:52:00.002+01:00

This Sunday sees a number of club members travel to Fermoy in Co.Cork for the IJKA National Championships. We wish them all good luck in their categories and I will post the results along with some photos when i get them.

Sports Seminars

2009-09-26T19:33:00.002+01:00

INAUGURAL GALWAY SPORTS CONFERENCE TO FEATURE LUMINARIES FROM THE IRISH SPORTING WORLD.

SPORTS PERFORMANCE: A PRACTICAL GUIDE

Sports enthusiasts, from around Galway and beyond, can enjoy the prospect of learning from some of the leading figures in Irish sports when the Galway City and County Sports Partnerships host the inaugural Galway Sports Conference. Please see attached for more details.

Saturday 3rd October in the Radisson Hotel in Galway City will host this conference entitled Sports Performance: A Practical Guide. Mick Curley, Galway County Sports Partnership Co-ordinator said ‘The local sports partnerships are all about educating and supporting our local clubs and individuals alike. We decided to deliver an event that would inform people about high performance, lace it with top practitioners in their respective fields, and provide an opportunity for sportspeople in Galway to enact it locally.’

Curley continued, ‘Every high performance sportsperson, regardless of the code they participate in, will tell you that there are many variables that make the difference between being good and being great. This gathering of experts will explore those variables in detail and will utilise their collective experience in international sports to provide clear, concise and practical advice to the current coach and athlete.

The participant will benefit from the lecture and practical workshop approach where areas such as sports psychology, creating teamwork, developing speed and strength, training young athletes, sports injury, and sports science are broken down and made applicable to the local and national level sportsperson.’

Jason Craughwell of the Galway City Sports Partnership added, ‘The element that I find so compelling about this conference is that we’ve made it affordable; €25 per person is a fantastic price and includes all lectures, workshops and even lunch. If we expect people to give up their Saturday then we want the public to get value for money and so our sponsors have ensured that we keep the costs to a minimum.’

The speakers include Mayo manager John O’Mahony, internationally-famous sports injury specialist Ger Hartmann, the renowned ultra marathoner Richard Donovan, and former sports scientist to the Olympic teams, Giles Warrington. The workshops will provide hands-on advice for coaches and participants and will be of immense value regardless of your preferred sport.

Registration is open and further information can be obtained by emailing info@galwaysportsconference.com or by visiting the conference website at www.galwaysportsconference.com.

Contact: Mick Curley

Mobile: 087-3292393

Email: mcurley@GalwayCoCo.ie

The Mayo Sports Partnership is pleased to announce, as part of their Preparing for Success in Sport Programme and commitment to promoting sports participation / healthy living, a series of Lucozade Sport Educational Workshops which will take place at the Breaffy GAA ClubHouse in October and November 2009.

Dates: October 12th, November 9th, November 23rd, 2009.

Day: Mondays

Time: 7.30pm

Venue: Breaffy GAA Clubhouse, Breaffy, Castlebar, Co. Mayo

Price: €10 per workshops. Book all 3 for just €25

· Monday 12th October: Fuel & Fluid -nutrition & hydration

· Monday 9th November: Get fit for sport & planning for success

· Monday 23rd November: The Female Athlete

Speaker/Tutor: Rosemary Daniel, Coaching Ireland.

Rosemary is a member of the Coaching Ireland team. Rosemary holds a BSc in Sport & Exercise Science from UL (2004) and recently completed an MSc specialising in the effect of calcium intake on fat metabolism at rest & during exercise. She joined the Coaching Ireland team as a sports science intern. She has a huge range of experience. She is involved with physiological testing athletes in the lab and adult education for different sports groups & teams. She has worked closely with national and international athletes from a range of sports. In 2008 she carried out much of the pre-season hydration tests for many of the counties involved in GAA. Rosemary is a competitive high jumper herself but also has and keen interest in basketball and many other sports

These workshops are aimed at all those with an interest in the development of sport and recreation including: sports clubs, community groups/organizations, agencies, schools, coaches, athletes, parents, and individuals.

To book a place see attached form or for further information contact Anne on 094-9047022,

Tel: 094 9047025

Email: msp@mayococo.ie

Training Articles

2009-09-14T20:40:00.001+01:00

I have published a new article in My Training Articles. This month it is about desigining a training routine. I hope it is of use to you. Follow the link on the side of the blog to the page.

Events of Interest

2009-09-09T02:23:00.004+01:00

Ray Payne will be in Breaffy GAA on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th, and you should contact Jarlath Cunningham for information and booking – 087 – 2673062

The I.M.A.F.-Ireland

Proudly Present

‘Weapons Workshops’

Sunday 20th September, 2009

Manulla Community Centre

Registration 9.30 am Workshop Ends 4.30 pm

Workshop 1 Haedong Kumdo 10 am to 1 pm
Haedong Kumdo Is The Ancient Korean Martial Art Of The Sword, Introduced To Ireland By Grandmaster Kim, Jeong Seong And The Haedong Kumdo Ireland Organisation. This Fascinating 1,500 Year Old Martial Art Teaches The Skills And Tactics Of The Korean Sword In The Traditional Manner And All Instructors Are Fully Qualified By The United World Haedong Kumdo Federation, The Federation Created By Grandmaster Kim To Oversee The Progression And Development Of Haedong Kumdo Throughout The World.

Workshop 2 Kobudo 1.30 pm to 4.30 pm
Kobudo Is The Weapons System Of The Ryukyu Kingdom, And Has Many Varied Schools And Weapons. The Nunchaku Is One Weapon Within This System Which Has Captured The Imagination Of Martial Artists And Film Makers Alike. A Complex Weapon To Master, This Introductory Workshop Will Present The Basic Manipulation Of The Nunchaku, And Some Of Its Defensive And Offensive Attributes.

IMAF Members €20 Non-Members €30

To Book Your Place Contact info@imaf-ireland.com

Japan Karate Shotorenmei - Ireland

Presents

Jan Spatzek 7th Dan JKS

JKS Denmark Chief Instructor

Jan Sensei is a former long term student of both Asai Sensei and Kanazawa Sensei. With a successful competition record with the Danish All-Styles Karate Team, Jan Sensei in now the highest ranking European instructor for the JKS and a member of the JKS Shihankai – an inspirational instructor with a wealth of knowledge.

2nd - 4th October 2009

Dublin, Ireland

For further info visit www.thejks.com

IJKA Open Championships 2009

2009-09-06T16:43:00.004+01:00

The IJKA Irish open will take place on Sunday October the 4th in the Loreto Sports Complex Fermoy Co. Cork. There will be all the usual categories of Kata and Kumite with Wheelchair events being decided on the day.

Registration is at 10am on the day. Junior events will begin at 11am, Seniors at 1pm and Wheelchair events at 2pm.

Fees are €15 for Seniors, €10 for Juniors, €20 for Teams.
Adult spectators will pay €10 with children free.
Fees include any number of individual events.

Protective equipment must include Gum shields and Mitts and no one may compete without them.

For further information contact Sensei Brian Toomey 6th Dan Head IJKA Ireland on
+353(0)87 2500783. or e-mail ijkaireland@eircom.net

View Larger Map

Updates

2009-09-01T13:54:00.002+01:00

Hi all I am just back from two weeks holidays so it will take me a few days to get up to date with all the upcoming events and what has happened over the past two weeks. Make sure to check in often over the coming few days as I will be posting lots.

Remember that the Beginners Class is starting on Saturdays at 11:30 in the Dojo so make sure to tell your friends and call Sensei Stacey if you want to start.

Sensei Brian Toomey 6th Dan head of IJKA Ireland was in the Dojo while I was away and taught a class followed by the kata Jin. I believe he also conducted a grading for some members of the club. All who graded passed with flying colours and congratulations to them.
I know other members of the club are in full training at the moment for grading with Sensei Brian over the coming months so keep up the good work.

The date for the Irish IJKA Championships has been set and I will publish it as soon as I can.

Dont forget Sensei Kato 9th Dan World Head of IJKA is coming to Tuam in October so mark your calenders now for what will be a great event.

IMAF Weapons Seminar

2009-08-16T05:48:00.004+01:00

The IMAF along with Haedong Kumdo Eire are holding a weapons seminar on Sunday 20th September in Manulla Community Center. Registration is at 9.30 and will run all dat untill 16:30.
Weapons covered will be Sword and Nunchaku. The cost is €30 for non IMAF members.
For Info please contact

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Beginners Class

2009-08-11T20:39:00.002+01:00

In September as the schools return the club will begin a new course for beginners. So if you are interested or know anyone interested in starting to learn karate then send them along.
Classes will run from 11:30 to 13:00 and all are welcome. For further information contact Sensei Stacey Kelly on the number provided in contact details at the side of
the page.

Sensei P.J. Maloney 5th Dan

2009-08-10T04:56:00.002+01:00

On Saturday 8th Aug Sensei PJ Maloney 5th Dan attended the club for a training session. There was a good turnout on the day with a good mix of Junior and Senior students.
After warm-up Sensei PJ went into some Khion. He worked the basics of proper Hame Shomen in a dynamic way which had everyone breathless and tired by the end of the first half.
The Senior section saw more work on basics but mixed with Ippon Kumite and then lots of kicking. We did some Squad drills and cooled down using Kata. Everyone agreed that is was a great training day. Many thanks to Sensei PJ for travelling up from Tipperary for the day and to Sensei Stacey Kelly 2nd Dan for arranging it.

Sensei P.J. Maloney

2009-07-22T01:13:00.004+01:00

A quick post to let you know that on Sat. 8th of August Sensei PJ Maloney 5th Dan will be hosting training in the dojo. Juniors are from 13:00 to 14:00hrs and Seniors from 13:00 to 15:00hrs.
Sensei PJ is the IJKA National Squad Kumite coach and has won numerous National, European and International titles.
All who can should take advantage of this training opportunity.

New Training Article

2009-07-14T05:40:00.002+01:00

I have added a new training article to the 'My Training Articles' page. It is about Flexibility Training although a long article I have tried to keep it as simple as possible.

Later this week I will publish a report on the IMAF International Seminar which was held in Barnacarroll.

IMAF International Seminar

2009-06-29T22:40:00.004+01:00

As you can see on the Events list there is an Open Seminar in Barnacarroll on 12th July. Following is a brief description of the International instructors that will be attending on the day.

Geoff Benoy is a 7th Dan Shotokan from Belgium. Geoff was one of the Belgium team Karate team members back in 1972 at the 2nd WUKO World Championships in Paris. He earned his 5th Dan with the JKA, 6th Dan with the JKS and 7th Dan with the IMAF-Europe. Geoff also holds an 8th Dan in Koryu Te Jutsu which is the study of Kata Bunkai.

Andre Le Capitaine is a 5th Dan in Judo and was a member of the Belgian Judo Team before taking up Iaido. He holds a 3rd Dan in Iaido, Sword Drawing Techniques. Andre was also a sports journalist and travelled reporting on all the major international Martial Arts events. He has met and trained with most of the top people in a variety of Martial Arts.

Jens Fricke is a 6th Dan in Shotokan Karate, but also holds Dan grades in Kobudo, Ju Jitsu, and Taiho Jutsu which is the police force Martial Art used by the Gardai, as well as a number of police forces internationally. He does teach a number of police officers, and also teaches private security firms in Germany.

Tony Johnson, 5th Dan in Jujitsu trains in London and also holds a 3rd Dan in Bujutsu, a 1st Dan in Karate and a 1st Dan in Judo. Tony is one of the most senior instructors of the London Bujutsu Club, founded by some of the Japanese instructors who travelled to England with E. W. Barton-Wright of Bartitsu fame in the 1898.

Mike Gingell is a 5th Dan in Judo and teaches in London. He has had huge competitive success both himself and with his students.

Also there will be local IMAF Instructors in attendance.
Registration is at 09:30 on the morning or in advance by application form. I will leave the forms and the poster on the Notice Board of the Dojo this week.

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IJKA Summer Course

2009-06-24T19:05:00.003+01:00

Last weekend 20th and 21st of June was the annual summer course in Dungarvan. Seven of the club members travelled down for the event. I was only available for the Saturday but none the less it was a tough event.
The day began on the beech with two hours of Khion work. It was a very sunny day and a number of Karateka were burnt by the end. After dinner we went inside and spent two hours working kicks and kick combinations. Of particular difficulty for everyone was the series of seated kicks and the two Animal form kicks. One 'The Scorpion' required putting one hand on the ground and kicking backward over your head similar to a scorpion stinging. The other a Monkey attack required standing on both hands with your back to opponent and double kicking to the head.
There was alot of people on the ground after that.
Sunday was devoted to Kata. Hian Shodan, Junro Shodan including the complete Bunki for it, and Kibaken Shodan. All agreed it was a great seminar.

IJKA Summer Course

2009-06-14T11:08:00.000+01:00

Sensei Kato 9th Dan head of the IJKA will be in Dungarvan next weekend 20 & 21st for the Summer Course.The course will be held on Clonlea Strand. Registration will be at Ten with the Children's Section following afterwards. At 11:30 there will be a general class until One. After dinner, weather permitting training will be on the beach. Sunday morning will have two sessions, one for Brown and Black Belts only and a general class.

There will be no class in Tuam next Saturday as a number of Students are travelling to the course with Sensei Stacey. Class will resume as normal on the following Saturday.

I will post some photos from the course with an account of the happenings next week.
Also I will bring you some information of the IMAF International Seminar in Barnacarroll.

I have added a new article on Nutrition to My Training Articles. My hope is to add one each month but it can be hard to research and test some of these ideas.

IMAF European Championships

2009-06-03T21:53:00.004+01:00

Congratulations to Marie Murphy who represented Tuam Karate Club and Ireland in the recent IMAF European championships.
Marie travelled to Emden in Germany with her Sensei Stacey Kelly and the Irish team of 20 competitors. There were 19 different countries represented at the event with over 500 competitors in all.
Marie took part in the Kata, Ippon Kumite and Sambon Kumite. Sadly she was unsuccessful in the Kata and Ippon Kumite but made it through 3 rounds in the Sambon to fight for third place. The fight was tied on 5 points all when she and her opponent struck simultaneously with Gyaku Tzuki. Marie was unlucky and lost the decision placing her 4th overall.
Marie and Sensei Stacey had a great time and were full of praise for the event. They thought that the IMAF Team Ireland organisers did a great job.
There are other photos in the Gallery.

Tuam Class Notice

2009-05-25T22:52:00.002+01:00

There will be no class this Bank holiday weekend as Sensei Stacey will be accompanying Marie Murphy to Germany where she will be coaching Marie as she competes in the IMAF European Championships. Marie is taking part in Kata, Sanbon Kumite and Ippon Kumite.
Good luck Marie and I hope you do well.

JKS Championships

2009-05-18T17:45:00.004+01:00

The IJKA Squad from left to Right Pat, Ross, Joe,(from Cork) Mick,(from Tipperary) Marie,(Tuam) and Sensei PJ Maloney(squad coach).

This is the Squad who took part in the JKS Competition. There was a large attendance at the competition with compeditors from all over Europe. You can see additional pictures in the Gallery.

Congratulations

2009-05-11T23:48:00.002+01:00

As some of you may know Sensei Stacey Kelly underwent her Nidan Grading in March this year at the Spring Seminar in Cork. Sensei Kato 9th Dan head of the IJKA officiated. Sensei Stacey was successful.
This weekend while attending class with Sensei Brian Toomey 6th Dan in Fermoy she received her Certificate.
Congratulations to Sensei Stacey on this great achievement.

JKS Open Course

2009-05-08T21:28:00.003+01:00

I know it is short notice but Sensei Scott Langley 5th Dan JKS is teaching an open course on Sunday 10th May in Barnacarroll from 10am until 12 with registration at 9.30am.
Anyone who needs a lift can talk to Marie Murphy.

JKS Seminar in Drumone

2009-04-30T18:58:00.003+01:00

On the Sunday 26th April following the competition in Ardee two members from the club, Sensei Stacey Kelly and Marie Murphy travelled to Drumone, a small village in Co. Meath in order to attend a JKS Seminar hosted by Drumone Karate Club and instructed by Sensei Scott Langley 5th Dan JKS. The following is Maries account of the event.

"We were met by Sensei Pat Murtagh and his class who made us wonderfully welcome and displayed an example of community and Karate spirit to be admired in this very rural spot.
Sensei Scott dealt alot with the concepts of Hamme and Shomen giving extra care to keeping our hips level and driving directly forward. This was better explained through partner work and Khion.
We then covered some very interesting pairs work dealing with being less predictable in Kumite. The class finished up with training to benefit those grading in Gohan Kumite and all Katas up to Bassi Dai in an informative manner.
Both of us thought our three hour stop off was well worth it and left happy at getting some good training in whilst meeting some lovely people."

International Karate Championships Ardee

2009-04-26T15:02:00.003+01:00

On Saturday 25th April three members from Tuam Sho Bu Kan Karate Club travelled to Ardee in Co. Louth for an Open International Championship. Myself, Sensei Stacey and my wife Marie There was a large turn out with competitors from Ireland, Northern Ireland, the UK and according to the organisers also India, Iran and Palistan.

Four floors were in continual use from 10am in the morning to when we had to leave at 17:30. There was still another six catagories to run and four to finish at that time. The number of competitors exceeded 300 with the majority under fifteen.

I was entered in Kata and Kumite. Kata being for Masters owing to my advancing years!
but I was successful and won the catagory with Bassi Dai. I also entered the senior section and although didnt place gained valuable experience performing Kanku Dai. As for the Kumite we had to leave before it began.

Sensei Stacey and Marie were entered in Kata, Team Kata and Kumite. Stacey placed third in the senior Kata section with Marie joint fifth. Both then proceeded to the Team event where they performed Empi. There was twelve teams in the eliminator and they made it into the second round. However the Judges threw the competitors a curve and would not allow them to perform the same kata in the next round. There was a flurry of impromtu rehersals in the two minute waiting time. Stacey and Marie performed Bassi Dai and placed fifth. Again we had to leave before the Kumite.

Next time we will be better prepared and available to stay all night if needs be.

Marie will be travelling to the JKS Nationals in May.

In the photo me looking on at one of the Kata Catagories.
Check the Gallery for some more photos of the day

Class Times & Changes

2009-04-18T10:31:00.002+01:00

There will be no class next Saturday as some of Tuam Sho Bu Kan club members will be travelling with Sensei Stacey to the Irish Open Championships in Ardee. Class will Resume on Saturday 2nd May at 13:00 for all grades.

For those at a loose end next Saturday don't forget the IMAF Seminar in Barnacarroll. Added the the list is a series of talks by Mr Paul O Grady Orthopaedic Surgeon dealing with the management of sports injuries.

2009-04-13T02:48:00.004+01:00

Malcolm & Marie Murphy outside PJ Maloney's Dojo
(can you guess the Kata Move?)

Although there was no class this weekend due to Easter break, members of Tuam Sho Bu Kan club with Sensei Stacey Kelly (Instructor) travelled to Tipperary for IJKA Squad training under the instruction of Sensei PJ Maloney 5th dan. It was a gruelling event, but extremely informative for all. In attendance were a number of accomplished Karatea, and the club members were honoured to receive instruction and guidance from them, and at times to hold its own on the mat. We left honoured, humbled, and eager for the next Squad Training meeting!

Inernational Karate Champoionships Ardee

2009-04-04T11:54:00.003+01:00

Anyone wishing to enter The International Karate Campionships in Ardee Co. Louth on the 25th Apr. '09 take note that the closing date for entries is Sun 13th Apr. '09. All details for the event can be viewed at this link

http://www.karateireland.eu/2009/golden_dragon_karate_tournament_2009.pdf

Note:-

There will be no class next week on Saturday 11th due to Easter Break and class will resume the following Sat with a new schedule.

Class for ALL Students from 13:00 to 15:00hrs

There will be no Beginners class.

2009-03-29T13:08:00.003+01:00

Tuam Sho Bu Kan held a Grading and Class on Saturday 28th March. It was a well attended event with a large Grading group. Sensei Toomey taught the Kata, Junro Godan which was well received by all.

Congratulations to all. Everyone successfully passed their grading. I will post a list of those successful and the grades achived at a later time.

Upcoming Grading

2009-03-26T10:42:00.003Z

Good luck from Tuam Sho Bu Kan Karate Club to everyone in the upcoming Grading Exams. Remember class starts at 11am so be in the hall by 10:30.
Sensei Brian Toomey 6th Dan will be taking the class and conducting the grading on the day.